It is unusual to begin a month-long observance mid-month, but there's good reason for National Hispanic Heritage Month to begin on the 15th.
Five Latin American countries mark their independence on this date: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. They all declared their independence from Spain in 1921.
On the night of Sept 15, 1810, Father Hildago gave the "El Grito" (Cry for Freedom) that began Mexico's rebellion against Spain. Today, the president of Mexico steps onto the balcony of the National Palace in Mexico City and voices the same "El Grito!" They celebrate Independence Day on Sept. 16.
